FAQs and Legalities

Getting Married in NSW – The Simple Guide

 

1. Are you eligible?

    • You can marry in NSW if:
    • You’re both at least 18 (special court approval is needed if one person is 16–17).
    • You’re not already married.
    • You’re not immediate family.
    • You both understand what marriage means and consent freely.
    • You use an authorised celebrant (civil or religious).

2. Choose your celebrant
You’ll need a registered celebrant to make your marriage legal.

    • Civil celebrant (non-religious, registered with the government)
    • Religious celebrant (minister of religion)
    • Registry wedding (through NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages)

3. Fill out the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
Complete the NOIM form and give it to your celebrant at least 1 month before the wedding.

You can download the form from these links

Download the PDF

Download the Microsoft Word Doc

It stays valid for 18 months.

Use the name on your birth certificate, passport, or official change of name documents.

Bring with you:

    • Your birth certificate or passport, plus photo ID.
    • If previously married: divorce or death certificate.
    • If under 18: court approval and parent/guardian consent.
    • Non-English documents must be translated into English by an accredited translator.

 4. Before the wedding

    • Choose two witnesses (must be 18+ and able to understand English).
    • Discuss your ceremony format, vows, and any music or readings with your celebrant.

5. On the day

Before the ceremony, you’ll both sign a legal declaration that you are free to marry.

During the ceremony:

    • The celebrant says the required legal words.
    • You exchange vows (and rings, if you choose).
    • You, your celebrant, and your two witnesses sign the certificates.
    • You’ll get a ceremonial certificate on the day.
    • Your celebrant registers your marriage with Births, Deaths & Marriages.

6. After the wedding

    • Apply for your official marriage certificate (needed for name change and legal records).
    • Decide if you’ll change your surname — the official marriage certificate is enough proof.
    • Update important documents and services (Medicare, Centrelink, licences, bank, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Initial Meeting

Choosing the right celebrant is crucial to ensure your wedding day is perfect. I recommend an initial meeting, which is both obligation-free and cost-free, to see if I am the right fit for you. This meeting can take place wherever you feel most comfortable, whether it be your home, a coffee shop, my office, or any other mutually agreed location. During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to get to know me better. We will discuss all the legal requirements necessary before, during, and after your wedding, and I will also listen to your ideas and preferences for your ceremony.

 

What will it cost and what are the legal requirements?

I offer an all-inclusive cost for your wedding, ensuring there are no hidden surprises. Here’s what my services include:

 

Engagement and Deposit

Once you engage me as your celebrant, I only commit to one wedding per day. A non-refundable deposit secures your date, allowing me to decline other inquiries for that day. This deposit covers all pre-wedding legal work and tasks, as well as unlimited meetings.

 

Pre-Wedding Legalities and Paperwork

A Notice of Intended Marriage must be completed and lodged with me at least one month and no more than 18 months before your wedding date. I will provide and help you complete all necessary forms for before, during, and after your ceremony. I will handle all the legal work and submissions to the relevant authorities. You will need to provide your original birth certificates (extract or full) and photo identification. If you lack a birth certificate, I can discuss alternative options.

Wedding Ceremony

Legally, only three elements are required during the ceremony. Beyond that, you have full flexibility. I will work with you to create a ceremony that reflects your style, whether traditional or unique. I can provide numerous options and a sample ceremony to help you visualize the event, including vows, ring exchanges, and readings.

 

Rehearsal

Although not mandatory, a rehearsal at your venue is recommended to ensure everyone is comfortable with the ceremony flow. This helps reduce nerves and ensures everyone knows their roles.

 

Pre-Wedding Meetings

We can meet as frequently as you wish, in person, via email, phone, or a combination. This ensures you are comfortable and confident about your wedding day.

 

Draft Ceremony

A draft of your ceremony will be provided about four weeks before the wedding. You can make changes before finalizing the script.

 

Ceremony Memento

I will print your ceremony on parchment as a keepsake.

 

Public Address (PA) System

I provide a fully portable professional PA system, including a radio microphone for clear audio and an additional microphone for readings. This system also plays your ceremony music.

 

Signing Table

If required, I provide a signing table with a white tablecloth and an appropriate pen for signing certificates.

 

What will I do on the Day?

Ceremony Execution:
I can manage the entire ceremony or involve special friends and family members for readings or other roles, ensuring the day is personal and meaningful.

Marriage Certificates:
Three certificates are signed on the wedding day: one for my records, one for you, and one for the Registrar. Your copy will be professionally printed.

Change of Name:
If you plan to change your name, I can assist with the paperwork and lodge it with the Registrar, streamlining the process for obtaining your official certificate.

Arrival:
I arrive at least 20 minutes before the ceremony to set up and ensure everything is in place. I also check in with the groom and his attendants.

Bride’s Arrival:
I will meet the bridal car to ensure everything is in order and to help you feel at ease before the ceremony begins.